Cultural Funding Scrutiny, Berlin Antisemitism Fund Controversy, and Columbus Statue Reinstalled

German Culture Minister Wolfram Weimer is under fire for compiling lists of jury members in cultural funding, raising concerns about political influence, with critics fearing potential security checks. In Berlin, the cultural administration faces allegations of negligence in a €10 million antisemitism fund, ignoring warnings and accelerating decisions under political pressure, prompting an investigation. Meanwhile, a replica of a toppled Christopher Columbus statue has been installed near the White House in Washington, D.C., as part of symbolic politics by the Trump administration, amid ongoing debates over monuments following George Floyd protests. Additionally, Hape Kerkeling opposes plans to charge tourists entry fees for Cologne Cathedral, arguing it undermines accessibility, while the New Museum in New York reopens with an expansion by Rem Koolhaas, featuring exhibitions on technology and humanity.